Portugal Voted the Top Place to Live in Europe!

In a recent survey by the NatWest Quality of Life Index, Portugal was voted the Best Place to Live in Europe and the 3rd Best Place in the World. It was beaten by Canada and New Zealand and closely followed by Italy, France and then Spain. The survey revealed that increasing numbers of UK workers are now spending time working abroad and that the number of people retiring abroad is also rising.

Escaping pressured jobs and stressful life styles and a desire for a better way of life has led to more British Citizens moving abroad than ever before. Thirty seven percent of expats surveyed put quality of life as the number one factor influencing their decision.

The survey was taken by British expats living permanently abroad and looked at key criteria including: healthcare, public transport, weather, housing, food, entertainment, education, security, natural environment, leisure and culture, public services, law enforcement, availability of consumer goods, sanitation, retirement facilities and banking services.

It was revealed, and probably of no surprise, that British expatriates are healthier, wealthier and happier wherever they move to, but why did Portugal come out on top?

Portugal has a total population of just under 11 million; less than the population of London! This contributes to a slower and more relaxed pace of life with fewer queues, less traffic jams and congestion and altogether a whole lot more space to move around in.

Let’s also not forgot that Britain and Portugal have long had good relations, dating back to 1373 when the two countries signed the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance, which is the oldest alliance still in force in the world.

The Algarve is the most popular destination in Portugal for expats. With its 200 km coastline home to over 50 sandy beaches, of which a third fly the prestigious blue flag for cleanliness of water, its little wonder this province of Portugal is so popular.

The weather is without doubt one of the most important factors. With over 300 days of sunshine per year and temperatures ranging from the high 30’s degrees C in summer and rarely dropping below 10C in winter.

Portugal’s quality housing also makes it a great place to invest in property whether for life style or holiday rentals. Newly constructed properties are spacious and generally built to a high standard. This, together with the implementation of strict building regulations, which controls growth and manages development, will ensure that Portugal retains it charm and desirability for generations to come.

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